My research is in the assessment, planning and design of high-performing pre-K, elementary and secondary education facilities by considering both the teaching pedagogy and interior and exterior spatial environments. The physical design of the space is linked with the pedagogy and curricular content of the learning environment, carefully considering and assessing how to optimize learning in space as a material design in coordination with the pedagogical space.

A theoretical focus to my research involves the phenomenology of architecture. To facilitate this involves consideration of a language of space, form, and materials and a revaluation of the senses as a means of relating to the world. This longing for a more embodied experience, for more recognition of the importance of the sensory, for design that gives priority to the body, movement, sensory experiences, everyday needs, and possibilities to emerge is an essential aspect of my design approach in teaching and practice.

Current Conference Presentations and Publications 2015-16:“Pre-Occupancy Phenomenological Inquiry of Learning Space,” Higher Education Institutional Research HEIR Network Conference 2015, University of West of Scotland, September 10-12, 2015.“Framing Community Engagement: A Culture of Collaboration and Co-creative Processes,” ACSA 2015 Regional Conference, Between the Autonomous and Contingent Object, Syracuse, NY, October 8-10, 2015.“Timber Framing in the Digital Age,” 2015 AIA Ohio Valley Region Convention, The End of Normal, October 11-13, 2015.“Take It Outside! Creating a Nature-based Learning Environment,” Head Start Region V Leadership and Professional Development Conference, Chicago, Illinois, October 12-15, 2015.Charter School Patterns of Innovation: A New Architecture for a New Education, Edited by Pamela Harwood, produced by BBC Immersive Learning students, Ball State University, published by Lulu Press, 2014. A companion guidebook on educational facility design and planning with 55 design patterns/principles illustrated and cross-referenced to Case Studies. Video and website is available: http://vimeo.com/41358976 and School Design.

Nature Play: Into the Woods with Design Thinking

Edited by Pam Harwood, a BLURB publication, 2015. This guidebook presents the continued design, development and construction of a nature-based outdoor classroom learning and play environment for Head Start in Muncie and ties the constructed activity settings to learning standards in Indiana for preschoolers. A video is available about the semester’s work: http://vimeo.com/84224383